Granular turf safe mesotrione compositions

ABSTRACT

A composition comprising herbicidal mixtures of mesotrione impregnated into or coated on the surface of a granular substrate material such as a fertilizer granule and/or a solid inert carrier material is provided for use to control weeds in turfgrasses without causing damage to the grass and methods for the use thereof.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to Provisional Application No.60/700,637, filed Jul. 19, 2005, which is incorporated herein in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to granular compositionscontaining mesotrione herbicides and to methods for the use thereof.More particularly, the compositions of this invention compriseherbicidal mixtures of mesotrione impregnated into or coated on thesurface of a granular substrate material such as a fertilizer granulefor use to control weeds in turfgrasses without causing damage to thegrass.

2. Description of Related Art

Mesotrione is a triketone compound having the chemical structure of(2-[4-methylsulfonyl-2-nitrobenzoyl]-1,3-cyclohexane dione) employingCAS nomenclature. A liquid product containing 40 weight percentmesotrione is being sold under the trademark Callisto® by Syngenta CropProtection, Inc. as a systemic pre-emergence and post-emergenceherbicide for the selective contact and residual control of broadleafand grassy weeds in field corn, production seed field corn, field corngrown for silage, yellow popcorn and sweet corn. In the context of thepresent invention, the term “mesotrione” is intended to refer to thetriketone compound itself as well as to all formulations containing suchcompound.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,158 describes a wide variety of compounds includingmesotrione which are useful as herbicides and can be applied in avariety of ways at various concentrations. The compounds or saltsthereof described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,158 are described as beingformulated into herbicidal compositions, by admixture, in herbicidallyeffective amounts, with adjuvants and carriers normally employed forfacilitating the dispersion of active ingredients for agriculturalapplications and acknowledges the fact that the formulation and mode ofapplication of such active ingredients may affect the activity of thematerials in a given application.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,158 further discloses that the diverse activeherbicidal compounds or salts disclosed therein can be formulated asgranules of relatively large particle size, as wettable powders, asemulsifiable concentrates, as powdery dusts, as flowables, as solutionsor as any of several other known types of formulations, depending uponthe desired mode of application. The formulations containing the activesare disclosed to contain as little as about 0.5% to as much as about 95%or more by weight of active ingredient. A herbicidally effective amountof the actives is disclosed as depending upon the nature of the seeds orplants to be controlled and the rate of application varies from about0.01 to approximately 10 pounds per acre, preferably from about 0.02 toabout 4 pounds per acre.

Granular formulations wherein the actives are carried on relativelycoarse particles as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,158 are usuallyapplied without dilution to the area in which suppression of vegetationis desired. Typical carriers for such granular formulations as describedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,158 include sand, fuller's earth, attapulgiteclay, bentonite clays, montmorillonite clay, vermiculite, perlite andother organic or inorganic materials which absorb or which may be coatedwith the toxicant. These granular formulations are normally prepared tocontain about 0.1% to about 25% of active ingredients which may includesurface-active agents such as heavy aromatic naphthas, kerosene or otherpetroleum fractions, or vegetable oils; and/or stickers such asdextrins, glue or synthetic resins.

In U.S. Pat. No. 6,890,889, herbicidal formulations comprisingmesotrione in combination with an adjuvant system were disclosed tooptimize post emergent activity on broadleaved weeds in corn. Thepreferred adjuvant system to optimize weed control and minimize cropresponse was disclosed to be a crop oil concentrate (COC). Otheradjuvant systems for use in the formulation may comprise liquidcompositions such as methylated seed oil (MSO), urea ammonium nitrate(UAN) and ammonium sulfate (AMS). No granular formulations aredisclosed.

In Published U.S. Patent Application US 2005/0096226, herbicidalcompositions useful for controlling weeds in growing crops such as maize(corn) comprising triketone products including mesotrione in combinationwith an organic phosphate, phosphonate or phosphinate adjuvant weredisclosed which can be prepared as a pre-mix concentrate for formulationin various forms including granular formulations with typical carrierssuch as sand, fuller's earth, attapulgite clay, bentonite clays,montmorrilonite clay, vermiculite, perlite and other organic orinorganic materials which absorb or which can be coated with the activecompound.

However, it appears that mesotrione applied as a liquid in spray form asdescribed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,006,158, 6,890,889 and in Published U.S.Patent Application US 2005/0096226 is not effective for use incontrolling weeds in turfgrasses without causing unacceptable injury tothe grasses. Specifically, previously known mesotrione containingformulations in spray form have demonstrated unacceptable levels ofdamage/phytotoxicity to a range of turfgrass varieties. Turfgrassvarieties as referred to herein include perennial ryegrass (Loliumperenne), fine fescue (Festuca spp.), Kentucky bluegrass (Poapratensis), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea), zoysiagrass (Zoysiaspp.), St. Augustinegrass (Stenotaphrum secundatum), centipedegrass(Eremochloa ophiuroides), and the like and mixtures thereof. In view ofthis perceived shortcoming of prior liquid mesotrione containingformulations, mesotrione sprays have not been considered to be capableof being employed broadly for effective herbicidal treatment inturfgrass varieties.

Thus, it would be advantageous to provide granular compositionscontaining mesotrione as an active herbicidal ingredient which can beused to control weeds in turfgrasses such as perennial ryegrass, finefescue, Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, zoysiagrass, St.Augustinegrass, centipedegrass and the like and mixtures thereof withoutcausing unacceptable phytotoxic levels of damage to these grasses.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is a primary object of the present invention to provide granularmesotrione containing formulations for safe and effective herbicidaltreatment of turfgrass species whereby weeds growing, for example, in alawn can be controlled without causing undue phytotoxic effects on thegrasses themselves.

Another object of this invention is to provide granular turf safemesotrione compositions for herbicidal treatment of weeds inturfgrasses.

A further object is to provide methods for effective and efficientcontrol of weeds in a turfgrass without causing significant injury tothe turfgrass by applying a granular mesotrione containing compositionto the grass.

The foregoing and other objects of this invention are achieved byproviding a granular herbicidal composition comprising mesotrione coatedon or impregnated into a solid granular substrate material, preferably,a fertilizer material. Alternatively, a suitable inert solid carriermaterial may be employed with or in substitution for the fertilizermaterial. The resulting compositions have been found to be highlyeffective for use in controlling the growth of weeds in turfgrasseswithout causing significant injury to the turfgrass when appliedthereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Illustrative fertilizers which can be employed for mixture with aherbicidal mesotrione ingredient to produce a granular composition ofthe present invention include a wide variety of fertilizer granules,particles or pellets (which are referred to collectively herein asfertilizer granules) such as organic and inorganic nitrogen-containingcompounds comprising urea, urea-formaldehyde condensation products,amino acids, ammonium salts and nitrates, potassium salts (preferablychlorides, sulfates, nitrates) and phosphoric acid and/or salts ofphosphoric acid. Also, it should be noted that the fertilizer granulessuitable for inclusion in the present mixtures may also containmicronutrients, such as iron, manganese, magnesium, boron, copper, zincand the like.

The physical forms of the fertilizers to be employed in combination withmesotrione to produce the compositions of the present invention includegranules and extruded particles. Fertilizer granule sizes, preferably,should range from about 1.0 to about 5.0 mm diameter (most preferably,about 1.5-3.0 mm). Extruded particle sizes preferably should range fromabout 0.6 to about 7.0 mm diameter (most preferably, about 1.0-3.0 mm).Particle length preferably should range from about 0.6 to about 10.0 mm(most preferably, 1.0-5.0 mm).

Preferably, the chemical analysis for the fertilizer component to beincluded in the present compositions, when present, should range fromabout 1 to about 40% by weight elemental nitrogen (N) (most preferably,about 15-36% by weight); about 1 to about 30% by weight phosphorous asP₂O₅ (most preferably, about 1-27% by weight); and about 1 to about 20%by weight potassium as K₂O (most preferably, about 3-15% by weight). Themicronutrient content of the fertilizer ingredient, preferably, shouldrange from about 1 to about 20,000 ppm (parts per million).

Preferably, the quantity of mesotrione to be incorporated in combinationwith the fertilizer component to prepare the compositions of the presentinvention should range from about 0.05% to about 1.0% (preferably about0.1-0.5%) by weight of the total composition.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, inert solidcarriers may be admixed with the mesotrione component either with orwithout the fertilizer constituent to produce a composition for use inaccordance with the present invention.

Suitable inert solid carrier materials for use herein include any of avariety of organic and/or inorganic materials, which absorb or which maybe coated with the mesotrione active ingredient and that have beenappropriately ground/fractionated/sized, may be employed herein.Suitable organic materials include corncobs, peanut hulls, processedpaper pulp, sawdust and the like whereas suitable inorganic materialsinclude limestone, gypsum, sand, vermiculite, perlite, fuller's earthand clays such as attapulgite clays, bentonite clays, montmorilloniteclays.

Preferably, the quantity of mesotrione to be incorporated in combinationwith an inert carrier material to prepare the compositions of thepresent invention should range from about 0.025% to about 1.25%(preferably about 0.075-0.4%) by weight of the total composition.

The compositions of the present invention may be produced employing anyof a variety of processes. For example, the mesotrione can be applied toa fertilizer/inert granule using one or more of the followingtechniques: (a) as a spray mixture with solvents and/or surfactants; or(b) adhered to the outer surface of the fertilizer/inert granule with anadhesive/sticking agent; or (c) incorporated into a mixture of dryingredients and a liquid, and then extruded or molded into discreteparticles; or (d) impregnated into a porous granule.

Specifically, the compositions of the present invention may be preparedby mixing mesotrione with a granular fertilizer in effective amounts(for example, in a rotating drum container) and mixing the ingredientsfor a sufficient period of time until the mesotrione is uniformly coatedon and absorbed in the fertilizer granules.

Other optional methods which may be employed for producing compositionsof the present invention containing mesotrione and a granular fertilizerinclude:

-   -   Dissolving a mesotrione concentrate in a liquid        solvent/surfactant blend, then spraying this mixture on a        fertilizer and/or inert carrier material so the solution is        uniformly absorbed on the substrate particles; or    -   Using mesotrione in a dry powder state, tacking this onto the        surface of a fertilizer and/or inert carrier material using a        liquid sticking agent or adhesive to obtain a uniform        distribution of the mesotrione over the substrate particles.

The compositions of the invention as described above can be applied atvarious rates to achieve the desired effect of weed control and turfsafety. In general, a minimum rate of about 0.15 to about 0.25 lbmesotrione per acre is required to control weeds in turfgrass under thewide range of conditions that are experienced in growing turf, such asgeographical location, temperature, soil moisture, weed species andstage of growth, and other factors. In addition, the variables thataffect the precision of application of the compositions (for example,the quality and accuracy of the application equipment) make it verylikely that higher rates of mesotrione than intended may be applied byusers of the products, especially by non-professional users.

Thus, the benefits of this invention, as described herein are veryimportant to enable application of compositions of granular mesotrionewithout causing undue harm to the turfgrasses to which the compositionis applied. To the contrary, liquid mesotrione treatments would be muchmore likely to cause injury when applied to desirable turfgrasses forthe same reasons noted above relating to variability in applicationrates; particularly, in view of the fact that liquid mesotrione does notexhibit the turf safe features resulting from the use of thecompositions of this invention.

In accordance with the present invention, granular herbicidalcompositions for use in controlling weeds in a turfgrass without causingsignificant injury to the turfgrass are provided comprising mesotrionecoated on or impregnated into granular substrate materials wherein thegranular substrates are solid fertilizer granules, inert solid carriermaterials or mixtures thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the solid fertilizer granules are organic orinorganic nitrogen-containing compounds and the composition isformulated to provide a weight percentage of mesotrione when applied toa turfgrass calculated in accordance with the equation:

A=X(Y÷Z)

wherein A is the weight percentage of mesotrione provided by thecomposition when applied to a turfgrass; X is the application rate inpounds per acre of mesotrione provided when the composition is appliedto treat the turfgrass; Y is the weight percentage of Nitrogen in thecomposition; and Z is the application rate in pounds per acre ofNitrogen provided when the composition is applied to treat theturfgrass.

In the most preferred embodiments of the present invention, it has beenfound that the herein provided compositions are formulated and methodsare provided for use of the compositions in treating perennial ryegrassat application rates of about 0.15 to about 1.0 lb granularmesotrione/acre; for treating fine fescue at application rates of about0.25 to about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre; for treating Kentuckybluegrass at an application rate of about 1.0 lb granularmesotrione/acre; for treating tall fescue at application rates of about0.33 to about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre; for treating zoysiagrassat application rates of about 0.15 to about 0.5 lb granularmesotrione/acre; for treating St. Augustinegrass at application rates ofabout 0.5 to about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre and for treatingcentipedegrass at an application rate of about 1.0 lb granularmesotrione/acre.

The following specific examples are presented to further illustrate andexplain certain aspects of the present invention. However, the examplesare set forth for illustration only, and are not to be construed aslimiting on the present invention. In the following examples, allpercentages and parts are by weight unless otherwise specified.

Example 1

This example illustrates the preparation of a granular herbicidalcomposition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying these compositions toa variety of turfgrasses.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.61 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was combined with 99.39 weightpercent of a granulated fertilizer by measuring and metering the liquidmesotrione into a rotating drum containing the granular fertilizer andmixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until the mesotrione wasuniformly coated on and absorbed in the fertilizer granules.

The granular fertilizer employed to produce the composition for use inthis example comprised a 25-3-10 formulation including urea, ureaformaldehyde concentrate (UFC), potassium sulfate, monoammoniumphosphate (MAP), ammonium sulfate with iron, manganese, zinc, copper,molybdenum and boron micronutrients. The fertilizer analysis comprisedtotal nitrogen (TN) content of 25.61 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation, ammoniacal nitrogen content of 4.20 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation, urea nitrogen contentof 11.47 weight percent based on the total fertilizer formulation, watersoluble organic nitrogen content of 9.11 weight percent based on thetotal fertilizer formulation, and water insoluble nitrogen content frommethylene ureas of 0.83 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation. The fertilizer analysis further comprised 3.14 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation of availablephosphorus (P₂O₅); 10.24 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation of potash and 7.91 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation of sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thefertilizer yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.24% and this compositionwas evaluated for turfgrass injury by application on perennial ryegrass,fine fescue and tall fescue, at a rate of 0.33 lb mesotrione/acre(equivalent to an application rate of 137.5 lbs of the totalcomposition/acre). In this regard, samples of the composition werepre-weighed and then each of the samples was applied, at the properrate, in three replicated treatments to separate turf plots measuring 9square feet each. Three comparable sized untreated check plots wereemployed as control plots to provide a reference point to demonstratethat untreated plots would not display any harm to the turfgrass.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 14 days and 26 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Injury ratings above “1.5” were easilyvisible. The results of this testing representing an average of thethree replications per treatment are tabulated in Table 1 as follows:

TABLE 1 Results Employing a Granular Fertilizer Mesotrione CompositionTurfgrass Injury (0-10 Rating Scale) Perennial Ryegrass Fine Fescue TallFescue Treatment 14 DAT 26 DAT 14 DAT 26 DAT 14 DAT 26 DAT Mesotrione/0.3 0 0 0 0.3 0 Fertilizer Composition Untreated 0 0 0 0 0 0 Check Plot(Control)

Example 2

The mesotrione/fertilizer composition of Example 1 was evaluated for itsefficacy in controlling dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), white clover(Trifolium repens), and crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) weeds at thesame application rate of 0.33 lb. mesotrione/acre as employed inExample 1. Samples of the composition of Example 1 were pre-weighed andthen each of the samples was applied, at the proper rate, in threereplicated treatments to separate test plots, measuring 9 square feeteach, which were infested with these specific weeds. The results of thistreatment were compared to three comparably sized untreated check plots(controls) to provide a reference demonstrating that untreated plotswould display no weed control in the turfgrass.

Readings for initial weed control were taken 14 days after treatment(“DAT”) and final readings for weed control were taken 28 days aftertreatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scale of0-10 was used for initial weed control results after 14 days where “0”indicated no injury and “10” indicated dead weeds. A rating scale of0-100 was used for weed control evaluation results after 28 days where“0” is no control and “100” is total weed control. The results of thistesting representing an average of the three replications per treatmentare tabulated in Table 2 as follows:

TABLE 2 Weed Control Results Employing a Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneComposition Weed Control Dandelion White Clover Crabgrass 14 DAT 28 DAT14 DAT 28 DAT 14 DAT 28 DAT Weed Weed Weed Weed Weed Weed Control -Control - Control - Control - Control - Control - (0-10 (0-100 (0-10(0-100 (0-10 (0-100 Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating TreatmentScale) Scale) Scale) Scale) Scale) Scale) Mesotrione/ 8.3 94.7 7.7 957.3 88.3 Fertilizer Composition Untreated Check 0 0 0 0 0 0 Plot(Control)

From the results of the testing as tabulated in Tables 1 and 2, itshould be noted that the use of the compositions of the presentinvention on turfgrasses is safe to the particular species ofturfgrasses tested and the compositions have been demonstrated to beeffective in causing initial injury and longer term control ofsignificant weeds in turf.

Example 3

This example illustrates the phytotoxicity testing results achieved byapplying liquid mesotrione alone to the same turfgrass varieties astested in Example 1. As will be noted this test demonstrates themoderate to severe injury resulting from the spray application of liquidmesotrione to these turfgrasses as compared with the results rangingfrom no injury to only limited injury which were achieved when thecompositions of the present invention comprising a granular fertilizeradmixed with liquid mesotrione were employed to treat such grasses asexemplified by the results tabulated in Table 1.

In this example, mesotrione, in the form of Callisto® (40% mesotrioneliquid), was evaluated as applied to the same turfgrasses of Example 1(perennial ryegrass, fine fescue and tall fescue) for turfgrass injuryat a rate of 0.33 lb mesotrione/acre. The mesotrione product wasmeasured, placed in a sprayer with water and spray applied in threereplicated treatments to separate test plots measuring 4 square feeteach. The amount of water used was 2.6 gallons/1,000 square feetequivalent.

Readings for turf injury were taken 7 days, 20 days and 34 days aftertreatment (“DAT”). A rating scale of 0-100 was used for evaluationpurposes where “0” indicated no injury and “100” indicated dead turfwith ratings of 10 and above being undesirable. The results of thistesting representing an average of the three replications per treatmentare tabulated in Table 3 as follows:

TABLE 3 Results Employing a Liquid Mesotrione Spray CompositionTurfgrass Injury (0-100 Rating Scale) Perennial Ryegrass Fine FescueTall Fescue Treatment 7 DAT 20 DAT 34 DAT 7 DAT 20 DAT 34 DAT 7 DAT 20DAT 34 DAT Mesotrione 20 10 10 23.3 26.7 16.7 6.7 26.7 10 SprayUntreated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Check Plot (Control)

Example 4

Spray applied liquid mesotrione as employed in Example 3 was evaluatedfor control of dandelion, clover, and crabgrass weeds at a rate of 0.33lb mesotrione/acre. The liquid mesotrione test sample was measured,placed in a sprayer with water and spray applied in three replicatedtreatments to separate test plots measuring 4 square feet each at a rateof 0.33 lb mesotrione/acre. The amount of water used was 2.6gallons/1,000 square feet equivalent.

Readings for weed control were taken 7 days, 26 days and/or 34 daysafter treatment (“DAT”). A rating scale of 0-100 was used for weedcontrol evaluation where “0” is no control and “100” is total weedcontrol. The results of this testing representing an average of thethree replications per treatment are tabulated in Table 4 as follows:

TABLE 4 Weed Control Results Employing a Liquid Mesotrione SprayComposition Weed Control (0-100 Rating Scale) Dandelion White CloverCrabgrass Treatment 7 DAT 26 DAT 34 DAT 7 DAT 26 DAT 34 DAT 7 DAT 34 DATMesotrione 46.7 99 93 40 50 76.7 70 31.7 Spray Untreated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Check Plot (Control)

From the results of the testing as tabulated in Tables 3 and 4, itshould be noted that the use of the mesotrione spray treatments resultedin control of significant weeds in turf as expected. However, at thesame application rate, the mesotrione sprays caused serious injury tothe treated turfgrass species that would render this spray treatmentcommercially and functionally unacceptable.

Example 5

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying these compositions toperennial ryegrass and zoysiagrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.205 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 1.30 weight percent and combined with 98.495 weightpercent of a granulated fertilizer by measuring and metering the liquidmesotrione into a rotating drum containing the granular fertilizer andmixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until the mesotrione wasuniformly coated on and absorbed in the fertilizer granules.

The granular fertilizer employed to produce the composition for use inthis example comprised an 18-23-4 formulation including urea, ureaformaldehyde concentrate (UFC), potassium sulfate, monoammoniumphosphate (MAP), and ammonium sulfate. The fertilizer analysis comprisedtotal nitrogen (TN) content of 18.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation, ammoniacal nitrogen content of 4.20 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation, urea nitrogen contentof 7.20 weight percent based on the total fertilizer formulation, watersoluble organic nitrogen content of 5.60 weight percent based on thetotal fertilizer formulation, and water insoluble nitrogen content frommethylene ureas of 0.60 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation. The fertilizer analysis further comprised 23.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation of availablephosphorus (P₂O₅); and 4.00 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation of potash.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thefertilizer yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.0820% and this compositionwas evaluated for turfgrass injury by application on perennial ryegrassand zoysiagrass at a rate of 0.15 lb mesotrione/acre (equivalent to anapplication rate of 181.20 lbs of the total composition/acre). In thisregard, samples of the composition were pre-weighed and then each of thesamples was applied, at the proper rate, in four replicated treatmentsto separate turf plots measuring 9 square feet each. Four comparablesized untreated check plots were employed as control plots to provide areference point to demonstrate that untreated plots would not displayany harm to the turfgrass.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, and/or 21 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of “1.5” andgreater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. The results ofthis testing representing an average of the four replications pertreatment are tabulated in Table 5 as follows:

TABLE 5 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Pounds Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable mesotrione/Perennial Ryegrass Zoysiagrass Treatment acre 7 DAT 21 DAT 14 DATMesotrione/Fertilizer 0.15 0.2 0.2 0.6 Composition Mesotrione Liquid0.15 1.8 2.0 2.0 Spray Untreated Check — 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

Example 6

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.478 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.800 weight percent and combined with 98.722weight percent of a granulated fertilizer by measuring and metering theliquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the granularfertilizer and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the fertilizergranules.

The granular fertilizer employed to produce the composition for use inthis example comprised a 28-3-3 formulation including urea, ureaformaldehyde concentrate (UFC), potassium sulfate, monoammoniumphosphate (MAP), and ammonium sulfate. The fertilizer analysis comprisedtotal nitrogen (TN) content of 28.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation, ammoniacal nitrogen content of 9.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation, urea nitrogen contentof 10.40 weight percent based on the total fertilizer formulation, watersoluble organic nitrogen content of 7.90 weight percent based on thetotal fertilizer formulation, and water insoluble nitrogen content frommethylene ureas of 0.70 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation. The fertilizer analysis further comprised 3.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation of availablephosphorus (P₂O₅); 3.00 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation of potash and 11.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation of sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thefertilizer yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.191% and this compositionwas evaluated for turfgrass injury by application on perennial ryegrassat a rate of 0.25 lb mesotrione/acre (equivalent to an application rateof 130.50 lbs of the total composition/acre). In this regard, samples ofthe composition were pre-weighed and then each of the samples wasapplied, at the proper rate, in four replicated treatments to separateturf plots measuring 9 square feet each. Four comparable sized untreatedcheck plots were employed as control plots to provide a reference pointto demonstrate that untreated plots would not display any harm to theturfgrass.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, and/or 21 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of “1.5” andgreater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. The results ofthis testing representing an average of the four replications pertreatment are tabulated in Table 6 as follows:

TABLE 6 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Pounds PerennialRyegrass Treatment mesotrione/acre 7 DAT 14 DAT 21 DATMesotrione/Fertilizer 0.25 0.8 0.8 0.4 Composition Mesotrione Liquid0.25 1.6 3.1 1.5 Spray Untreated Check — 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

Example 7

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass and fine fescue turfgrasses.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.631 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.700 weight percent and combined with 98.669weight percent of a granulated fertilizer by measuring and metering theliquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the granularfertilizer and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the fertilizergranules.

The granular fertilizer employed to produce the composition for use inthis example comprised a 28-3-3 formulation including urea, ureaformaldehyde concentrate (UFC), potassium sulfate, monoammoniumphosphate (MAP), and ammonium sulfate. The fertilizer analysis comprisedtotal nitrogen (TN) content of 28.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation, ammoniacal nitrogen content of 9.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation, urea nitrogen contentof 10.40 weight percent based on the total fertilizer formulation, watersoluble organic nitrogen content of 7.90 weight percent based on thetotal fertilizer formulation, and water insoluble nitrogen content frommethylene ureas of 0.70 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation. The fertilizer analysis further comprised 3.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation of availablephosphorus (P₂O₅); 3.0 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation of potash and 11.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation of sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thefertilizer yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.253% and this compositionwas evaluated for turfgrass injury by application on perennial ryegrassand fine fescue turfgrasses at a rate of 0.33 lb mesotrione/acre(equivalent to an application rate of 130.50 lbs of the totalcomposition/acre). In this regard, samples of the composition werepre-weighed and then each of the samples was applied, at the properrate, in four replicated treatments to separate turf plots measuring 9square feet each. Four comparable sized untreated check plots wereemployed as control plots demonstrating that untreated plots would notdisplay any harm to the turfgrass. The fine fescue testing resultstabulated in Table 7 include results from two independent testsdesignated (1) and (2) in the table. Each test was conducted using themethod previously described.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14 and/or 21 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of “1.5” andgreater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. The results ofthis testing representing an average of the four replications pertreatment are tabulated in Table 7 as follows:

TABLE 7 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Fine PoundsPerennial Fine Fescue Fescue mesotrione/ Ryegrass (1) (2) Treatment acre14 DAT 7 DAT 21 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/ 0.33 0.3 0.3 1.0 0.8 FertilizerComposition Mesotrione 0.33 2.1 1.8 1.8 2.2 Liquid Spray Untreated Check— 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

Example 8

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue turfgrasses.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.957 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.400 weight percent and combined with 98.643weight percent of a granulated fertilizer by measuring and metering theliquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the granularfertilizer and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the fertilizergranules.

The granular fertilizer employed to produce the composition for use inthis example comprised a 28-3-3 formulation including urea, ureaformaldehyde concentrate (UFC), potassium sulfate, monoammoniumphosphate (MAP), and ammonium sulfate. The fertilizer analysis comprisedtotal nitrogen (TN) content of 28.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation, ammoniacal nitrogen content of 9.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation, urea nitrogen contentof 10.40 weight percent based on the total fertilizer formulation, watersoluble organic nitrogen content of 7.90 weight percent based on thetotal fertilizer formulation, and water insoluble nitrogen content frommethylene ureas of 0.70 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation. The fertilizer analysis further comprised 3.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation of availablephosphorus (P₂O₅); 3.0 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation of potash and 11.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation of sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thefertilizer yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.383% and this compositionwas evaluated for turfgrass injury by application on perennial ryegrass,tall fescue, and fine fescue turfgrasses at a rate of 0.50 lbmesotrione/acre (equivalent to an application rate of 130.50 lbs of thetotal composition/acre). In this regard, samples of the composition werepre-weighed and then each of the samples was applied, at the properrate, in four replicated treatments to separate turf plots measuring 9square feet each. Four comparable sized untreated check plots wereemployed as control plots to provide a reference point to demonstratethat untreated plots would not display any harm to the turfgrass. Theperennial ryegrass testing results tabulated in Table 8 include resultsfrom two independent tests designated (1) and (2) in the table. Eachtest was conducted using the method previously described.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, 21, and/or 28days after treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating scorescale of 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated noinjury and “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of“1.5” and greater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. Theresults of this testing representing an average of the four replicationsper treatment are tabulated in Tables 8 and 9 as follows:

TABLE 8 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Pounds Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable mesotrione/Perennial Ryegrass (1) Perennial Ryegrass (2) Treatment acre 14 DAT 21DAT 28 DAT 7 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/Fertilizer 0.5 0.7 0.3 0.2 0.80.5 0.5 Composition Mesotrione Liquid 0.5 3.8 2.2 2.0 4.1 6.2 3.6 SprayUntreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

TABLE 9 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Pounds Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable mesotrione/Tall Fescue Fine Fescue Treatment acre 14 DAT 21 DAT 28 DAT 7 DAT 21 DAT28 DAT Mesotrione/ 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.4 0.5 1.2 0.3 Fertilizer CompositionMesotrione Liquid 0.5 2.8 3.0 2.1 1.8 3.6 2.6 Spray Untreated Check Plot— 0 0 0 0 0 0 (Control)

Example 9

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass, tall fescue, centipedegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, andfine fescue.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 1.913 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.200 weight percent and combined with 97.887weight percent of a granulated fertilizer by measuring and metering theliquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the granularfertilizer and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the fertilizergranules.

The granular fertilizer employed to produce the composition for use inthis example comprised a 28-3-3 formulation including urea, ureaformaldehyde concentrate (UFC), potassium sulfate, monoammoniumphosphate (MAP), and ammonium sulfate. The fertilizer analysis comprisedtotal nitrogen (TN) content of 28.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation, ammoniacal nitrogen content of 9.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation, urea nitrogen contentof 10.40 weight percent based on the total fertilizer formulation, watersoluble organic nitrogen content of 7.90 weight percent based on thetotal fertilizer formulation, and water insoluble nitrogen content frommethylene ureas of 0.70 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation. The fertilizer analysis further comprised 3.00 weightpercent based on the total fertilizer formulation of availablephosphorus (P₂O₅); 3.00 weight percent based on the total fertilizerformulation of potash and 11.00 weight percent based on the totalfertilizer formulation of sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thefertilizer yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.765% and this compositionwas evaluated for turfgrass injury by application on perennial ryegrass,tall fescue, centipedegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and fine fescue at arate of 1.00 lb mesotrione/acre (equivalent to an application rate of130.50 lbs of the total composition/acre). In this regard, samples ofthe composition were pre-weighed and then each of the samples wasapplied, at the proper rate, in four replicated treatments to separateturf plots measuring 9 square feet each. Four comparable sized untreatedcheck plots were employed as control plots to provide a reference pointto demonstrate that untreated plots would not display any harm to theturfgrass. The perennial ryegrass test results tabulated in Table 10include results from three independent tests designated (1), (2) and (3)in the table. Each test was conducted using the method previouslydescribed. The tall fescue test results tabulated in Table 11 includeresults from two independent tests designated (1) and (2) in the table.Each test was conducted using the method previously described. TheKentucky bluegrass test results tabulated in Table 12 include resultsfrom two independent tests designated (1) and (2) in the table. Eachtest was conducted using the method previously described.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, 21, and/or 28days after treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating scorescale of 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated noinjury and “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of“1.5” and greater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. Theresults of this testing representing an average of the four replicationsper treatment are tabulated in Tables 10, 11, and 12 as follows:

TABLE 10 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Perennial PerennialPerennial Pounds Ryegrass Ryegrass Ryegrass mesotrione/ (1) (2) (3)Treatment acre 28 DAT 21 DAT 28 DAT 7 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/Fertilizer1.0 0 0.9 0.5 0.9 1.2 Composition Mesotrione Liquid 1.0 3.8 6.6 2.1 5.27.2 Spray Untreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

TABLE 11 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Pounds Tall FescueTall Fescue Fine Centipede- mesotrione/ (1) (2) Fescue grass Treatmentacre 28 DAT 21 DAT 28 DAT 7 DAT 14 DAT Mesotrione/Fertilizer 1.0 1.0 0.91.0 0.9 0.4 Composition Mesotrione Liquid 1.0 1.5 5.8 4.0 3.0 1.5 SprayUntreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

TABLE 12 Comparative Results Employing Granular Fertilizer MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Kentucky PoundsKentucky Bluegrass Bluegrass mesotrione/ (1) (2) Treatment acre 14 DAT21 DAT 28 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/Fertilizer 1.0 1.4 0.2 0.1 0.80.5 Composition Mesotrione Liquid Spray 1.0 4.6 2.9 1.6 2.2 1.5Untreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

Example 10

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass and zoysiagrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.631 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.700 weight percent and combined with 99.669weight percent of a pelletized gypsum granule by measuring and meteringthe liquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the pelletizedgypsum and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the pelletized gypsumgranules. The pelletized gypsum employed to produce the composition foruse in this example contained 21.0% calcium and 16.0% sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thepelletized gypsum granule yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.252% andthis composition was evaluated for turfgrass injury by application onperennial ryegrass and zoysiagrass at a rate of 0.15 lb mesotrione/acre(equivalent to an application rate of 59.50 lbs of the totalcomposition/acre). In this regard, samples of the composition werepre-weighed and then each of the samples was applied, at the properrate, in four replicated treatments to separate turf plots measuring 9square feet each. Four comparable sized untreated check plots wereemployed as control plots to provide a reference point to demonstratethat untreated plots would not display any harm to the turfgrass.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, and/or 21 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of “1.5” andgreater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. The results ofthis testing representing an average of the four replications pertreatment are tabulated in Table 13 as follows:

TABLE 13 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Pounds Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable mesotrione/Perennial Ryegrass Zoysiagrass Treatment acre 7 DAT 21 DAT 14 DATMesotrione/Inert 0.15 0.3 0.4 0.2 Granular Composition Mesotrione Liquid0.15 1.8 2.0 2.0 Spray Untreated Check Plot — 0 0 0 (Control)

Example 11

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and zoysiagrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.631 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.700 weight percent and combined with 99.669weight percent of a pelletized gypsum granule by measuring and meteringthe liquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the pelletizedgypsum and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the pelletized gypsumgranules. The pelletized gypsum employed to produce the composition foruse in this example contained 21.0% calcium and 16.0% sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thepelletized gypsum granule yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.252% andthis composition was evaluated for turfgrass injury by application onperennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and zoysiagrass at a rate of 0.25 lbmesotrione/acre (equivalent to an application rate of 99.20 lbs of thetotal composition/acre). In this regard, samples of the composition werepre-weighed and then each of the samples was applied, at the properrate, in four replicated treatments to separate turf plots measuring 9square feet each. Four comparable sized untreated check plots wereemployed as control plots to provide a reference point to demonstratethat untreated plots would not display any harm to the turfgrass.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, and/or 21 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of “1.5” andgreater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. The results ofthis testing representing an average of the four replications pertreatment are tabulated in Table 14 as follows:

TABLE 14 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Pounds Finemesotrione/ Perennial Ryegrass Fescue Zoysiagrass Treatment acre 7 DAT14 DAT 21 DAT 7 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/Inert 0.25 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.20.6 0.5 Granular Composition Mesotrione 0.25 1.6 3.1 1.5 1.6 5.6 2.8Liquid Spray Untreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

Example 12

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition toperennial ryegrass, fine fescue, tall fescue and zoysiagrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.631 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.700 weight percent and combined with 99.669weight percent of a pelletized gypsum granule by measuring and meteringthe liquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the pelletizedgypsum and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the pelletized gypsumgranules. The pelletized gypsum employed to produce the composition foruse in this example contained 21.0% calcium and 16.0% sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thepelletized gypsum granule yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.252% andthis composition was evaluated for turfgrass injury by application onperennial ryegrass, fine fescue, tall fescue and zoysiagrass at a rateof 0.33 lb mesotrione/acre (equivalent to an application rate of 130.90lbs of the total composition/acre). In this regard, samples of thecomposition were pre-weighed and then each of the samples was applied,at the proper rate, in four replicated treatments to separate turf plotsmeasuring 9 square feet each. Four comparable sized untreated checkplots were employed as control plots to provide a reference point todemonstrate that untreated plots would not display any harm to theturfgrass. The perennial ryegrass testing results tabulated in Table 15include results from two independent tests designated (1) and (2) in thetable. Each test was conducted using the method previously described.The fine fescue test results tabulated in Table 16 include results fromtwo independent tests designated (1) and (2) in the table. Each test wasconducted using the method previously described.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14 and/or 21 daysafter treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating score scaleof 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated no injuryand “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of “1.5” andgreater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. The results ofthis testing representing an average of the four replications pertreatment are tabulated in Tables 15 and 16 as follows:

TABLE 15 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Perennial PerennialPounds Ryegrass Ryegrass mesotrione/ (1) (2) Tall Fescue Treatment acre14 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/Inert 0.33 0.3 0.9 0.8 0.30.4 Granular Composition Mesotrione 0.33 2.1 4.4 2.9 2.2 3.4 LiquidSpray Untreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

TABLE 16 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Fine Fine PoundsFescue Fescue mesotrione/ (1) (2) Zoysiagrass Treatment acre 7 DAT 14DAT 21 DAT 21 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/Inert 0.33 0.2 1.3 1.0 0.60.6 1.1 Granular Composition Mesotrione 0.33 1.8 3.9 1.8 2.2 4.7 3.4Liquid Spray Untreated Check — 0 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

Example 13

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition tofine fescue, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, St. Augustinegrass andzoysiagrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.631 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.700 weight percent and combined with 99.669weight percent of a pelletized gypsum granule by measuring and meteringthe liquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the pelletizedgypsum and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the pelletized gypsumgranules. The pelletized gypsum employed to produce the composition foruse in this example contained 21.0% calcium and 16.0% sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thepelletized gypsum granule yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.252% andthis composition was evaluated for turfgrass injury by application onfine fescue, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, St. Augustinegrass andzoysiagrass at a rate of 0.50 lb mesotrione/acre (equivalent to anapplication rate of 198.40 lbs of the total composition/acre). In thisregard, samples of the composition were pre-weighed and then each of thesamples was applied, at the proper rate, in four replicated treatmentsto separate turf plots measuring 9 square feet each. Four comparablesized untreated check plots were employed as control plots to provide areference point to demonstrate that untreated plots would not displayany harm to the turfgrass. The perennial ryegrass test results tabulatedin Table 17 include results from two independent tests designated (1)and (2) in the table. Each test was conducted using the methodpreviously described. The fine fescue test results tabulated in Table 17include results from two independent tests designated (1) and (2) in thetable. Each test was conducted using the method previously described.The tall fescue test results tabulated in Table 18 include results fromtwo independent tests designated (1) and (2) in the table. Each test wasconducted using the method previously described.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, 21, and/or 28days after treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating scorescale of 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated noinjury and “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of“1.5” and greater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. Theresults of this testing representing an average of the four replicationsper treatment are tabulated in Tables 17 and 18 as follows:

TABLE 17 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Perennial PerennialFine Fine Pounds Ryegrass Ryegrass Fescue Fescue mesotrione/ (1) (2) (1)(2) Treatment acre 21 DAT 28 DAT 7 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT 7 DAT 7 DATMesotrione/ 0.5 0.6 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.4 0.6 0.5 Inert Granule CompositionMesotrione 0.5 2.2 2.0 4.1 6.2 3.6 1.5 1.8 Liquid Spray Untreated Check— 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Plot (Control)

TABLE 18 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Pounds Tall FescueTall Fescue St. Augustine- Zoysia- mesotrione/ (1) (2) Grass grassTreatment acre 14 DAT 21 DAT 28 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT 7 DAT 14 DATMesotrione/ 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.9 1.0 0.9 0.4 1.3 Inert Granular CompositionsMesotrione 0.5 2.8 3.0 2.1 3.4 3.1 1.8 6.4 Liquid Spray Untreated — 0 00 0 0 0 0 Check Plot (Control)

Example 14

This example further illustrates the preparation of a granularherbicidal composition in accordance with the present invention and thephytotoxicity testing results achieved by applying this composition totall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, and St. Augustinegrass.

A granular composition of the present invention comprising 0.631 weightpercent of Callisto® (a 40% mesotrione containing liquid formulationsold by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.) was mixed with a solvent(hexylene glycol) at 0.700 weight percent and combined with 99.669weight percent of a pelletized gypsum granule by measuring and meteringthe liquid mesotrione into a rotating drum containing the pelletizedgypsum and mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the drum until themesotrione was uniformly coated on and absorbed in the pelletized gypsumgranules. The pelletized gypsum employed to produce the composition foruse in this example contained 21.0% calcium and 16.0% sulfur.

The resulting composition produced by applying mesotrione on thepelletized gypsum granule yielded a mesotrione analysis of 0.252% andthis composition was evaluated for turfgrass injury by application ontall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, and St. Augustinegrass ata rate of 1.00 lb mesotrione/acre (equivalent to an application rate of396.80 lbs of the total composition/acre). In this regard, samples ofthe composition were pre-weighed and then each of the samples wasapplied, at the proper rate, in four replicated treatments to separateturf plots measuring 9 square feet each. Four comparable sized untreatedcheck plots were employed as control plots to provide a reference pointto demonstrate that untreated plots would not display any harm to theturfgrass. The tall fescue testing results tabulated in Table 19 includeresults from three independent tests designated (1), (2) and (3) in thetable. Each test was conducted using the method previously described.The Kentucky bluegrass test results tabulated in Table 20 includeresults from two independent tests designated (1) and (2) in the table.Each test was conducted using the method previously described.

Each treated test plot was irrigated after the composition was appliedthereto and readings for turf injury were taken 7, 14, 21, and/or 28days after treatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating scorescale of 0-10 was used for evaluation purposes where “0” indicated noinjury and “10” indicated dead turf. Turfgrass injury at a level of“1.5” and greater was easily visible and considered unacceptable. Theresults of this testing representing an average of the four replicationsper treatment are tabulated in Tables 19 and 20 as follows:

TABLE 19 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Pounds Tall FescueTall Fescue Tall Fescue mesotrione/ (1) (2) (3) Treatment acre 28 DAT 14DAT 21 DAT 28 DAT 7 DAT 21 DAT Mesotrione/ 1.0 0.6 1.4 0.9 1.2 0.2 1.4Inert Granular Compositions Mesotrione 1.0 1.5 7.0 5.8 4.0 1.6 6.8Liquid Spray Untreated — 0 0 0 0 0 0 Check Plot (Control)

TABLE 20 Comparative Results Employing Inert Granular MesotrioneCompositions versus Liquid Mesotrione Spray Compositions TurfgrassInjury Rating Scale 0-10, Injury ≧ 1.5 unacceptable Pounds KentuckyBluegrass Kentucky Fine St. Augustine- mesotrione/ (1) Bluegrass (2)Fescue grass Treatment acre 14 DAT 21 DAT 28 DAT 14 DAT 21 DAT 7 DAT 7DAT Mesotrione/ 1.0 1.3 0.5 0.5 0.8 0.2 0.8 0.9 Inert GranuleComposition Mesotrione 1.0 4.6 2.9 1.6 2.2 1.5 3.0 4.9 Liquid SprayUntreated — 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Check Plot (Control)

Example 15

The mesotrione/fertilizer and mesotrione/inert granule compositions ofExamples 6, 7, 11, and 12 were evaluated for their efficacy incontrolling dollarweed (Hydrocotyle umbellata) at the same applicationrate of 0.25 lb and 0.33 lb. mesotrione/acre. Samples of the compositionof Examples 6, 7, 11, and 12 were pre-weighed and then each of thesamples was applied, at the proper rate, in four replicated treatmentsto separate test plots measuring four square feet each, which wereinfested with these specific weeds. The results of these treatments werecompared to mesotrione liquid spray treatments to show comparable weedcontrol activity between liquid and granule mesotrione products. Inaddition, untreated check plots (controls) of the same size wereincluded in the test to provide a reference demonstrating that untreatedplots would display no weed control in the turfgrass.

In this example, liquid mesotrione, in the form of Callisto® (40%mesotrione liquid), was evaluated as applied to dollarweed at rates of0.25 lb and 0.33 lb mesotrione/acre. The mesotrione product amount foreach application rate was measured out and placed in a sprayer and sprayapplied in a single pass using an automated spray booth in fourreplicated treatments to separate test plants. The spray chamberinterior area measuring 13.77 square feet received application of thespray with each of four replications. The amount of water used was 2.3gallons/1,000 square feet equivalent.

Readings for initial weed control were taken 9 days after treatment(“DAT”) and final readings for weed control were taken 28 days aftertreatment (“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating scale of 0-100was used for weed control evaluation results where “0” is no control and“100” is total weed control. The results of this testing representing anaverage of the four replications per treatment are tabulated in Table 21as follows:

TABLE 21 Comparative Weed Control Results Employing Granular FertilizerMesotrione and Inert Granule Mesotrione Compositions versus LiquidMesotrione Spray Compositions Weed Control Rating Pounds Scale 0-100mesotrione/ Dollarweed Treatments acre 9 DAT 28 DATMesotrione/Fertilizer Composition 0.25 27.5 65.0 Mesotrione/FertilizerComposition 0.33 30.0 65.0 Mesotrione/Inert Granule Composition 0.2518.8 65.0 Mesotrione/Inert Granule Composition 0.33 29.0 65.0 MesotrioneLiquid Spray 0.25 12.5 60.0 Mesotrione Liquid Spray 0.33 15.0 67.5Untreated Check Plot (Control) — 0 0

From the results of the testing as tabulated in Tables 6, 7, 14-16 and21 it should be noted that the use of the compositions of the presentinvention on turfgrasses are safe to the particular species ofturfgrasses tested and the compositions have been demonstrated to beeffective in providing control of weeds, such as dollarweed, in turf.The use of the mesotrione liquid spray treatments resulted in dollarweedcontrol as expected. However, at the same application rates, themesotrione sprays caused significant injury to previously referencedtreated turfgrass species that would render this spray treatment on abroad scale basis commercially and functionally unacceptable.

Example 16

The mesotrione/fertilizer and mesotrione/inert granule compositions ofExamples 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 14 were evaluated for their efficacy incontrolling white clover (Trifolium repens) at the same application rateof 0.33, 0.50, and 1.0 lb. mesotrione/acre. Samples of the compositionof Examples 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 14 were pre-weighed and then each ofthe samples was applied, at the proper rate, in four replicatedtreatments to separate test plots measuring 9 square feet each, whichwere infested with white clover. The results of these treatments werecompared to mesotrione liquid spray treatments to show comparable weedcontrol activity between liquid and granule mesotrione products. Inaddition, untreated check plots (controls) of the same size wereincluded in the test to provide a reference demonstrating that untreatedplots would display no weed control in the turfgrass.

In this example, liquid mesotrione, in the form of Callisto® (40%mesotrione liquid), was evaluated as applied to turfgrass infested withwhite clover at rates of 0.33, 0.50 and 1.0 lb mesotrione/acre. Themesotrione product amount for each application rate was measured out andplaced in a sprayer (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,415,956 and 6,170,706) and sprayapplied in four replicated treatments to separate test plots measuring 9square feet each. The amount of water used was 3.6 gallons/1,000 squarefeet equivalent.

Readings for weed control were taken 21 and 28 days after treatment(“DAT”) for each of the test plots. A rating scale of 0-100 was used forweed control evaluation results where “0” is no control and “100” istotal weed control. The results of this testing representing an averageof the four replications per treatment are tabulated in Tables 22 and 23as follows:

TABLE 22 Comparative Weed Control Results Employing Granular FertilizerMesotrione and Inert Granule Mesotrione Compositions versus LiquidMesotrione Spray Compositions Weed Control Rating Pounds Scale 0-100mesotrione/ White Clover Treatments acre 21 DAT 28 DATMesotrione/Fertilizer Composition 0.33 42.5 47.5 Mesotrione/FertilizerComposition 0.5 52.5 67.5 Mesotrione/Fertilizer Composition 1.0 78.887.3 Mesotrione/Inert Granule Composition 0.33 45 50 Mesotrione/InertGranule Composition 0.5 63.8 70.0 Mesotrione/Inert Granule Composition1.0 82.5 91.3 Mesotrione Liquid Spray 0.33 55.0 50.0 Mesotrione LiquidSpray 0.5 83.8 88.8 Mesotrione Liquid Spray 1.0 92.5 97.0 UntreatedCheck Plot (Control) — 0 0

TABLE 23 Comparative Weed Control Results Employing Granular FertilizerMesotrione and Inert Granule Mesotrione Compositions versus LiquidMesotrione Spray Compositions Weed Control Rating Pounds Scale 0-100mesotrione/ White Clover Treatments acre 21 DAT 28 DATMesotrione/Fertilizer Composition 0.33 50.0 60.0 Mesotrione/FertilizerComposition 0.5 50.0 50.0 Mesotrione/Fertilizer Composition 1.0 80.077.5 Mesotrione/Inert Granule Composition 0.33 42.5 42.5Mesotrione/Inert Granule Composition 0.5 56.3 55.0 Mesotrione/InertGranule Composition 1.0 87.5 66.3 Mesotrione Liquid Spray 0.33 47.5 40.0Mesotrione Liquid Spray 0.5 75.0 63.8 Mesotrione Liquid Spray 1.0 94.580.0 Untreated Check Plot (Control) — 0 0

From the results of the testing as tabulated in Tables 7-12 and 15-23,it should be noted that the use of the compositions of the presentinvention on turfgrasses are safe to the particular species ofturfgrasses tested and the compositions have been demonstrated to beeffective in providing control of weeds, such as white clover, in turfThe use of the mesotrione liquid spray treatments resulted in whiteclover control as expected. However, at the same application rates, themesotrione sprays caused significant injury to previously referencedtreated turfgrass species that would render this spray treatment on abroad scale basis commercially and functionally unacceptable.

Although the invention has been described in its preferred forms with acertain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the presentdisclosure has been made by way of example only. Numerous changes in thedetails of the compositions and ingredients therein as well as themethods of preparation and use will be apparent to those skilled in theart without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention asdefined in the appended claims.

1. A granular composition comprising mesotrione coated on or impregnatedinto a granular substrate material in an amount effective to controlweeds in a turfgrass without causing significant injury to theturfgrass, relative to a liquid mesotrione composition, when thecomposition is applied to the turfgrass, wherein: the amount ofmesotrione in the composition ranges from about 0.05% to about 1.0% byweight of the composition.
 2. The composition of claim 1 wherein thegranular substrate is solid fertilizer granules, inert solid carriermaterials or mixtures thereof.
 3. The composition of claim 2 wherein thesolid fertilizer granules comprise organic and inorganicnitrogen-containing compounds, potassium salts and phosphoric acidand/or salts of phosphoric acid or mixtures thereof.
 4. The compositionof claim 2 wherein the solid fertilizer granules comprise organic andinorganic nitrogen-containing compounds and the composition comprises aweight percentage of mesotrione when applied to a turfgrass calculatedin accordance with the equation: A=X(Y+Z) wherein A is the weightpercentage of mesotrione provided by the composition when applied to aturfgrass; X is the application rate in pounds per acre of mesotrioneprovided when the composition is applied to treat the turfgrass; Y isthe weight percentage of nitrogen in the composition; and Z is theapplication rate in pounds per acre of nitrogen provided when thecomposition is applied to treat the turfgrass.
 5. The composition ofclaim 2 wherein the fertilizer granules include micronutrients.
 6. Thecomposition of claim 3 wherein the organic and inorganicnitrogen-containing compounds comprise urea, urea-formaldehydecondensation products, amino acids, ammonium salts, ammonium nitrates ormixtures thereof.
 7. The composition of claim 3 wherein the potassiumsalts comprise potassium chlorides, potassium sulfates, potassiumnitrates or mixtures thereof.
 8. The composition of claim 5, wherein themicronutrients are iron, manganese, magnesium, boron, copper, zinc ormixtures thereof.
 9. The composition of claim 2 wherein the fertilizergranules include extruded particles.
 10. The composition of claim 2wherein the fertilizer granule sizes range from about 1.0 to about 5.0mm diameter.
 11. The composition of claim 9 wherein the granule sizerange of the extruded particles ranges from about 0.6 to about 7.0 mmdiameter and the particle length ranges from about 0.6 to about 5.0 mm.12. The composition of claim 3 wherein the chemical analysis of thefertilizer granules ranges from about 1 to about 40% by weight nitrogen,about 1 to about 30% by weight phosphorous and about 1 to about 20% byweight potassium.
 13. The composition of claim 8 wherein themicronutrient content of the fertilizer granules ranges from about 1 toabout 20,000 parts per million.
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled)
 16. Thecomposition of claim 2 wherein the inert solid carrier materialscomprise corncobs, peanut hulls, processed paper pulp, sawdust,limestone, gypsum, sand, vermiculite, perlite, fuller's earth,attapulgite clays, bentonite clays, montmorillonite clays or mixturesthereof.
 17. The composition of claim 1 formulated for treatment of aturfgrass comprising perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, Kentuckybluegrass, tall fescue, zoysiagrass, St. Augustinegrass, centipedegrassor mixtures thereof.
 18. The composition of claim 1 formulated fortreating perennial ryegrass at an application rate of about 0.15 toabout 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre.
 19. The composition of claim 1formulated for treating fine fescue at an application rate of about 0.25to about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre.
 20. The composition of claim 1formulated for treating Kentucky bluegrass at an application rate ofabout 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre.
 21. The composition of claim 1formulated for treating tall fescue at an application rate of about 0.33to about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre.
 22. The composition of claim 1formulated for treating zoysiagrass at an application rate of about 0.15to about 0.5 lb granular mesotrione/acre.
 23. The composition of claim 1formulated for treating St. Augustinegrass at an application rate ofabout 0.5 to about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre.
 24. The compositionof claim 1 formulated for treating centipedegrass at an application rateof about 1.0 lb granular mesotrione/acre. 25-49. (canceled)